The properties of
trace elements which feature in their therapeutic activity are: binding to macromolecules (
enzymes,
nucleic acids, etc.) with disturbance of
biological function, and interaction with other elements. These properties, particularly the binding to large molecules, are far from specific, an observation which is reflected in the very wide range of diseases in which
trace elements are employed. While
metal compounds have been administered for several centuries, the scientific basis for treatment with
trace elements began with the use of
gold compounds, initially in patients with
tuberculosis and later those with
rheumatoid arthritis. Although many other drugs have been developed, some of which also include
metal complexes,
gold has retained an important position in the treatment of this condition. The
gold-induced effects upon the immunological aspects of RA are also observed in other conditions with autoimmune involvement. The
antineoplastic potential of
metal complexes will be further exploited by the development of less toxic compounds--of
platinum and possibly also of other metals. At the same time there are improvements in the protocols for administration which increase the range of
cancers responding to treatment. Perturbation of gastrointestinal activity represents another area where
trace elements have an important therapeutic role, both in the control of intraluminal acidity and in the adjustment of nutrient availability. A fourth significant area of
trace element therapeutics involves the central nervous system where the use of
lithium has provided spectacular results in the treatment of affective and other disorders. With a very wide range of other conditions in which they are employed,
therapeutic uses provide somewhat unusual illustrations of the importance of
trace elements in human disease.